Generational Programming

Saturday, June 29

PPO, 10:30–11:30 a.m.

Learn from the designers and administrators of Creative Aging in NY State Libraries: A Regional Model with National Applicability—an IMLS National Leadership project—as they share their experiences and best practices in implementing this innovative program model in major urban, suburban, and rural libraries. Creative Aging programming supports partnerships between public libraries and teaching artists and helps libraries respond to the growing demand for meaningful programming for an aging population. Session features the debut of The Creative Aging Toolkit for Public Libraries. Moderator: Diantha Schull, Founder and Principal, DDSchull Associates. Speakers: Brigid Cahalan, Outreach Coordinator, New York Public Library; Ewa Jankowska, Director, Clinton Essex Franklin Library System, Plattsburgh, New York; Maura O'Malley, President/CEO, Lifetime Arts, Inc.; Shannon McDonough, Communications Director, Lifetime Arts, Inc.; and Terry Kirchner, Executive Director, Westchester (N.Y.) Public Library System

ALA, 2:30–4 p.m.

A statewide reading initiative for all ages, Choose to Read Ohio (CTRO) encourages libraries, schools, families, and others to build a community of readers and an appreciation of Ohio authors and literature. Every two years, with the input of dozens of librarians and educators, CTRO selects and promotes a booklist of 15-20 exemplary titles by authors native to or resident of Ohio. A companion reader’s toolkit is created for each book. Toolkits include discussion questions, extension projects (developed in light of academic content standards and 21st Century Skills), and activities suitable for library programming, classroom adoption, or family or book group use. The poster session features sample toolkits (available for attendees to take), CTRO author READ posters and other marketing items, and photos and evaluation information from creative CTRO projects produced by public, school, and academic libraries. CTRO was developed to be highly adaptable, to provide a selection of books and resources for any group from a small book club to a school district or city, and to communicate the breadth of Ohio literature. Speakers: Janet Ingraham Dwyer, Library Consultant, and Marsha McDevitt-Stredney, Director, State Library of Ohio

ALA, 2:30–4 p.m.

Research shows lifelong learning is vitally important in the Athens, Georgia, area. National publications recognize this as an ideal place to retire because of educational and cultural opportunities. The demographics show an 18% Baby Boomer population growing. How does technology change the way Baby Boomers and other older adults participate in library/museum sponsored life-long learning programs? Partners, Athens Clarke County Library and Lyndon House Arts Center, explored this question in an IMLS National Leadership Grant, The Boomers: Reflecting, Sharing, Learning. The ALA poster session will provide photos from the variety of programs, events, and exhibitions; graphs comparing modes of attendance and other findings; sample evaluation forms, and a live tour of the website. Speakers: Kathryn Ames, Director, and Madeline Darnell, IMLS Project Coordinator, Athens (Ga.) Regional Library System

Sunday, June 30

PLA, 4:30–5:30 p.m.

When the library closes, opportunities for out-of-the-ordinary adult programs open up. During this session, presenters will discuss the benefits of after-hours programs, as well as how to overcome typical obstacles. Learn how to present a successful after-hours program and take away practical tips on everything from getting permission from the board to marketing to new audiences to turning a program into a fundraiser. Programmers will highlight past favorites, including speed dating, a spelling bee for grown-ups, team trivia nights, and more. Speakers: Jennifer Czajka, Library Assistant, and Rebecca Malinowski, Librarian, Oak Park (Ill.) Public Library

Monday, July1

YALSA, 8:30–10 a.m.

Presenters will share some of their greatest intergenerational programming successes, and give you the tools you need to make them happen in your library! Learn about running terrific volunteer programs such as Book Buddies and Tech Coaching, how to host gaming programs, pop culture events, and digital media workshops that will bring Millennials together with youth and senior members of the community. Create innovative events that will build community, good will, and 21st century literacies. Gain understanding of the developmental benefits of intergenerational programs. Speakers: Dawn Rutherford and Sara Holloway

PLA, 10:30–11:30 a.m.

Adults in their 20s and 30s can be a difficult audience to capture. Learn how the GenLit collection at the Indian Prairie Public Library and Genre X at the Oak Park Public Library have been targeting this demographic through innovative collections and events. Speakers: Jennifer Asimakopoulos, Senior Adult Services Librarian, Indian Prairie Public Library, Darien, Illinois; Jennifer Czajka, Library Assistant, Oak Park (Ill.) Public Library; and Rebecca Malinowski, Librarian, Oak Park (Ill.) Public Library